New Delhi: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is expected to get a new Sarkaryawah (general secretary) in the coming days replacing Suresh ‘Bhayyaji’ Joshi. One of the six deputies of Joshi, Dattatreya Hosabale is expected to take charge, according to reports.
The decision to this effect is expected to be taken in RSS’s Akhil Bharatiya Prathinidhi Sabha, the annual conclave of top functionaries of the organisation, which is scheduled to be held in Bengaluru on March 19 and 20. Although RSS annual meets are generally held at its headquarters in Nagpur, this time around the venue has been shifted to Bengaluru in the wake of surging COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra.
The RSS elects its new general secretary every three years. Having taken over as general secretary in 2018 for the fourth time, Joshi completes his term this year. Another extension may not be possible given that he is already 73 years old, and the organisation’s work is expected to increase manifold in the wake of the 2024 general elections and 2025 RSS centenary celebrations.
Hosabale’s name has been in the reckoning for the past six years, from 2015, and he is relatively younger than Joshi at 65. Some of the members at the helm feel at 65, Hosabale will have nearly 10 years at his disposal, until he turns 75, to lead the organisation, and time to groom upcoming leadership. Along with the general secretary, new office bearers will be announced. The Pratinidhi Sabha will choose its new team on March 20.
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Hosabale has grown up in the ranks of the Hindutva ecosystem, starting from Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) to an organiser in RSS, and as an organiser, he has vast experience, which is an essential trait for the RSS general secretary, who plays a day-to-day role in the functioning of the organisation.
However, on the issue of succession, there is a difference of opinion among some RSS workers. “While the possibility of a change cannot be ruled out, I see no reason why the current fine balance among the RSS, BJP and government will be subjected to any change. Bhayyaji is currently coordinating among the three and everything is going on smoothly. Moreover, he is 73 and can go on for at least another three years,” Indian Express quoted a senior RSS functionary as saying.
On the other hand, some feel it is time Joshi is replaced in the best interests of organisation. “…the RSS also needs to groom someone for the position with a sufficient period at his disposal to carry out the responsibility,” the Indian Express quoted Dilip Deodhar, an RSS worker, as saying.
Some completely rule out the succession debate. They say there is no such indication from anywhere in the organisation, and feel there is no such need. Others point out that replacing Joshi does not mean demotion, but he will be stationed in Delhi to handle the twin responsibilities of the upcoming general election and RSS’s 100 years celebration, while Hosabale will be tasked with managing day-to-day affairs.
A section in the RSS does not favour Hosabale’s elevation, given his proximity to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and home minister Amit Shah, which they feel will allow BJP to meddle in RSS affairs.
Meanwhile, the RSS conclave in Bengaluru is expected to see a participation of 450 members in-person, and nearly 1,000 will be joining the proceedings virtually, taking the congregation size to 1,400.